OREANDA-NEWS. January 27, 2009. To execute the requests made by V. Putin, the Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation, (in Nizhny Novgorod), in particular, broadcasted by the federal TV channels, and I. Sechin, the Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation, in summer 2008 FAS Russia analyzed the situation on the market of coal concentrates in the Russian Federation, reported the press-centre of FAS Russia.

Based on its findings, FAS Russia initiated antimonopoly cases against the largest producers of coal concentrates - the group of companies of "Mechel", "EvrazHolding", "Raspadsky Ugol" and "Sibuglemet".

Upon investigating the cases, FAS Russia concluded that these companies violated Article 10 of the Federal Law "On Protection of Competition" and imposed administrative fines upon the first three companies for the amount of 798, 149 and 117million Rubles accordingly.

"Mechel", "EvrazHolding" and "Raspadsky Ugol" paid the fines, reduced the ex-works prices for coal concentrates, and concluded long-term contracts with the largest consumers for supplying coal concentrates.

Expediency of maintaining and further developing long-term contract relations between participants of the market of coal concentrates was confirmed at the end of December during the meeting with Igor Sechin, the Deputy Chairman of the Government of the Russian Federation.

However, at the moment the group of persons of "EvrazHolding" is challenging the FAS Russia's decision and determination. The case hearing is scheduled for 6th February 2009 and will take place at the Moscow Arbitration Court.